Best squad label brings no smile to Cheng Hoe

SEPANG: Tan Cheng Hoe refuses to be trapped by the label of having the best squad on paper as Harimau Malaya set out to pursue success at the FIFA Asean Cup.

The interim Harimau Malaya coach acknowledged that the quality of players at his disposal this time around provides confidence, but said it is no guarantee the national team will be able to win every match they face.

He said every player needs to understand the demands of delivering their best performance when wearing the national jersey, especially as expectations from supporters continue to rise.

"It is certainly a different squad, with different challenges. But if you have the best players, then naturally the demands will also be higher," said Cheng Hoe.

"When we have a good squad, the expectations are also higher. We need to get results or wins to satisfy the fans."

Cheng Ho does not want the players to be overly burdened by expectations that their individual reputations and the strength of their squad alone are enough to guarantee victory in every match.

"We cannot say that, on paper, with the best players, we can win every match. That is merely an assumption," he added.

"We will just focus on each match, one game at a time, in our effort to achieve positive results."

The approach is considered important given that Malaysia will have to navigate the Group A competition within a short period, with every result potentially affecting the team's chances of reaching the final.

Cheng Hoe also wants his players to remain fully focused on their respective responsibilities without worrying too much about what might happen in the following matches.

The FIFA Asean Cup, which will be held in Indonesia from Sept 25-Oct 5, sees Malaysia drawn in Group A alongside hosts Indonesia, Singapore and Bangladesh, with only the group winner advancing to the final.

Harimau Malaya will open their campaign against Bangladesh at Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta on Sept 25 before facing Indonesia at the same venue three days later.

Malaysia's final group match will see them take on Singapore at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung on Oct 1, while the final is scheduled to be held at Gelora Bung Karno on Oct 5.